Japanese Entrepreneur's U.S. Startup Opens World's Largest Strawberry Factory Near NYC

14 Jun, 2024

Japanese Entrepreneur's U.S. Startup Opens World's Largest Strawberry Factory Near NYC

Oishii Farm, a U.S. startup led by Japanese entrepreneur Hiroki Koga, has recently inaugurated the world's largest strawberry plant factory near New York. This cutting-edge facility is set to revolutionize strawberry production with its advanced technology and commitment to sustainability.

Located in New Jersey, the factory spans 22,000 square meters and specializes in cultivating Japanese varieties of strawberries for the U.S. East Coast market. The state-of-the-art facility employs artificial intelligence to meticulously control temperature, humidity, lighting, and other environmental factors to replicate ideal growing conditions found in Japan. Additionally, robots are employed to harvest the strawberries at their peak ripeness, ensuring optimal quality.

Founded in 2016, Oishii Farm commenced production in 2017. The company secured approximately ¥20 billion in investment from NTT Corp., Mizuho Bank, and other investors in February, channeling most of these funds into the construction of the new factory. Despite the premium price of $10 to $12 for a pack of about 10 strawberries—more than triple the cost of typical U.S. strawberries—Oishii Farm's produce has garnered significant popularity due to its exceptional sweetness and fragrance. This growing demand has prompted the company to expand its production capabilities.

CEO Hiroki Koga, 37, expressed his vision, stating, “I’d like to share the appeal of high-quality Japanese fruit with the world.” The launch of this expansive facility marks a significant step towards realizing this goal, bringing the exquisite taste of Japanese strawberries to a broader audience.